Ivy Tech Names VP For Government Relations
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIvy Tech Community College has named Mary Jane Michalak vice president for government relations. She most recently served as vice president for Thomas P. Miller and Associates. In her new role, Michalak will be responsible for directing and overseeing the governmental relations activities, which include planning and executing a comprehensive, proactive government affairs strategy. She will be a key point of contact for legislators, state and federal government officials. Michalak has a decade of experience in Indiana state government, including leading the State Student Assistance Commission of Indiana. During her time in this role she helped merge the agency with the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, bringing all higher education policy and operations together. In January 2013, former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, awarded Michalak with the Governor’s Distinguished Service Medal. She served on the federal relations committee of the National Association of State Student Grant and Aid Programs, and in 2014, was selected by the NASSGAP Executive Committee to speak to the White House Domestic Policy Council about financial aid reform efforts in Indiana. Michalak previously served as chief of staff and director of communications for the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance. She also served as a communications specialist for the Indiana Department of Education, where she held roles related to media relations and the State Board of Education support. Prior to her government service, Michalak worked as a Statehouse reporter covering education, policy, and gaming news for a niche publication. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with honors from IUPUI. Michalak currently attends Indiana University’s Robert H. McKinney School of Law, Indianapolis, where she is enrolled in a dual program with the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs to earn her Doctorate of Jurisprudence and Master of Public Affairs.